For most narrowboat owners, hull maintenance has traditionally meant a familiar cycle: lift the boat, pressure wash the hull, inspect it, repair any corrosion and apply another coating of blacking. A few years later, the process starts again. There is, however, a considerably more comprehensive alternative: abrasive blasting followed by thermal-sprayed zinc metallisation and a two-pack epoxy coating. Debdale Wharf Marina in Leicestershire has specialised in this approach for

Process steps for water purification on the rivers and canalways Water, Water Everywhere – A Practical New Approach to Fresh Water Afloat One of the less glamorous realities of living aboard a boat is managing fresh water. For many narrowboat and inland-cruiser owners, the amount of water available is dictated by the capacity of the onboard tank and the location of the next recognised water point. Once the tank begins to run low, the boat eventually has to move on. For occasi

When it comes to owning or buying a boat, I have learned that a professional marine survey is not just a formality. It is a critical step that can save you from costly mistakes and ensure your safety on the water. A marine survey provides a detailed inspection of a vessel’s condition, helping you understand what you are dealing with before making any decisions. In this post, I will explain why professional marine surveys matter, what they cover, and how they benefit boat owne

# Understanding the Importance of the Deck-Hull Joint in Motor Cruisers By Tom Crosby, *Midland Boat Surveyswww.midlandsboatsurveys.co.uk Introduction to the Deck-Hull Joint Every motor cruiser owner knows the rubbing strake. That tough, often rubber or PVC-clad extrusion runs along the hull-to-deck join. It takes the knocks from pontoons, fenders, and clumsy neighbours. However, many don't realize that beneath that cosmetic bumper lies one of the most common—and most overloo

When it comes to owning or buying a boat, understanding the condition and value of the vessel is crucial. Marine surveys provide that essential insight. Over the years, I have seen how a thorough marine survey can save buyers and owners from costly mistakes and unexpected repairs. This marine survey guide will walk you through the key aspects of mastering the art of marine surveys, helping you make informed decisions and maintain your boat’s safety and reliability. Understand

Owning or buying a boat comes with responsibilities. One of the most important is ensuring your vessel meets safety standards. A boat...

The HIN/CIN should be a 12 or 14 alpha numeric serial number that uniquely identifies your boat. It enables manufacturers to clearly...

Proper bilge pump positioning and secure electrical and properly rated wiring are crucial for effective internal...

Diesel tank - Fuel Filter - Engine Combustion process A massive increase in diesel fuel related breakdowns have been due to sticky diesel. Article by Darrell Broscomb, Marine Engineer at Tooley’s boatyard in Banbury. Darren writes that he sees many different mechanical issues throughout the year, but during 2023 notes seeing a massive increase in diesel fuel related breakdowns due to sticky diesel. At present, the marina had four boats requiring attention because of fuel iss

SEALINE 23 water in floor location near Heads I n certain Sealine 23 models there are incidents of freshwater leaks around the heads...

How to Master Gelcoat Blisters on Yachts and Motor Cruisers If you own a yacht or a motor cruiser, you may have encountered the dreaded...